Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 9, 2024 7:12 am GMT
Naomi Watts Discusses Special Bond with Bill Murray and New Film ‘The Friend’
Naomi Watts, the acclaimed Oscar-nominated actress, recently opened up about her “special friendship” with comedy icon Bill Murray as they reunited for their new film, The Friend, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) this past weekend. Actively engaging with co-hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager, Watts also emphasized the significance of addressing issues like hot flashes, showcasing her commitment to women’s health awareness.
Bringing Bill Murray On Board
Securing Bill Murray’s involvement in The Friend was no straightforward task. In an interview with Collider’s Perri Nemiroff, Watts described the challenges of getting the script into Murray’s hands, citing the actor’s unpredictable nature. Despite their previous collaboration on St. Vincent, Watts revealed that her efforts to reach him were not typical. “No, not really. We have worked together before, but we’re not always in touch,” she admitted.
Texting and Hand-Delivering Scripts
Watts revealed a rather unorthodox method she employed to persuade Murray to join the film. “I sent him a text and he responded right away,” she said. However, she quickly learned that emails would not suffice for the notoriously elusive actor. “He’s not gonna read it digitally,” Watts explained. Instead, she had to personally deliver a printed copy of the script, demonstrating the lengths she was willing to go to make this collaboration happen.
Murray’s Commitment to the Project
Co-director David Siegel noted that although there was uncertainty about Murray’s participation until he actually arrived on set, the actor never wavered from the project once engaged. “When he actually showed up to the production office for hair and makeup stuff, we were like, OK, he’s in the movie,” Siegel shared, highlighting Murray’s unpredictable approach to his film career.
About ‘The Friend’
The Friend revolves around Iris, played by Watts, who grapples with her grief after the unexpected death of her friend and mentor, Walter, played by Murray. The narrative evolves as Iris inherits Walter’s sizeable Great Dane and must navigate her sorrow while managing Walter’s literary legacy in her small Manhattan apartment. The film is adapted from the 2018 novel by Sigrid Nunez and explores themes of loss, companionship, and rediscovering purpose through unexpected friendships.
Film Reception at TIFF
Premiering at TIFF, The Friend has garnered attention for its poignant storytelling and compelling performances. The film provides a thoughtful exploration of human emotions, perfect for viewers seeking a heartfelt cinematic experience. As the festival continues, the film is anticipated to foster conversations around grief and the intricacies of friendship.
Acknowledging Women’s Health
<pIn addition to discussing her professional endeavors, Watts addressed an equally important issue: hot flashes and women's health awareness. Alongside Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager, she highlighted the need for open discussions surrounding this often-taboo topic. "Women are reclaiming this part of their lives," Watts noted, embodying a proactive stance that resonates with many audiences.
The Importance of Dialogue
Watts’ commitment to advocacy in women’s health issues speaks to a broader societal shift towards transparency and understanding. By sharing her experiences and insights, she encourages other women to engage in conversations around health challenges that impact them. “It means the world,” Watts said, reflecting on the significance of community and support among women navigating similar experiences.
The Future of Their Friendship
Watts expressed optimism about staying connected with Murray following their recent collaboration. Although their paths diverged for a time, she believed that working together again would strengthen their bond. Reflecting on the challenges of scheduling and communication with Murray, she remarked, “I think we probably will be in touch more often.”
Bill Murray’s Unique Approach to Acting
Murray’s distinctive absence of a traditional management structure means he often skips potential roles in significant films due to his unpredictable nature. His past decisions, including letting go of opportunities that shaped other actors’ careers, underline a fascinating aspect of his professional persona. As noted, he has rejected iconic roles in films like Forrest Gump and The Squid and the Whale, demonstrating his adherence to personal and artistic integrity over commercial prospects.
Looking Ahead
As The Friend begins its journey through film festivals and broader release, audiences can expect to engage with a narrative steeped in emotional complexity and the beauty of companionship amidst tragedy. Watts’ partnership with Murray promises to intrigue fans and newcomers alike, while her advocacy for women’s health remains a significant part of her public persona.
Stay tuned for further updates and news from TIFF as more insights into this film and its themes are unveiled.
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